New XBMC version 12 features HD audio support

Android and Raspberry Pi users are also included in the update.

The next iteration of XBMC, the open source media player, is now available for download. XBMC version 12 (codenamed "Frodo") includes a slew of notable features like HD audio support, which lets it play video files with DTS-MA and Dolby Tru-HD audio, though this feature is not yet available for OS X and iOS devices. The update also features improved image support, support for Raspberry Pi, and 64-bit support in OS X.

Also included is what is referred to as "initial support" for XBMC on Android. XBMC will run fine on any compatible Android device, but because of their capable processors, devices like the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 will be able to playback more HD video content (video on Android is decoded in software without any hardware assistance). Android users will still have to side-load the XBMC application onto their devices, as it's still not offered in the Google Play store. A helpful how-to is also available.

XBMC 12 "Frodo" also features improved AirPlay support across all available platforms, including XBMC for Windows, which can now receive AirPlay content from any compatible device.

More information about XBMC 12 "Frodo" and its updates can be found at the official download page.

Florence Ion / Florence was a former Reviews Editor at Ars, with a focus on Android, gadgets, and essential gear. She received a degree in journalism from San Francisco State University and lives in the Bay Area.